Final answer:
It can take anywhere from 2 months to 10 years for a patient infected with HIV to show symptoms. Not everyone infected will progress to AIDS, and with proper care and treatment, the disease progression can be delayed. Regular testing is recommended for individuals at risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
The time it takes for a patient infected with HIV to show symptoms can vary. In general, it can take anywhere from 2 months to 10 years for symptoms to appear. However, the average time is around 6-10 years.
During this time, the virus slowly attacks the immune system, and the individual may not even be aware that they are infected. It's important to note that not everyone infected with HIV will progress to AIDS, and with proper medical care and treatment, the progression of the disease can be delayed.
It's recommended that individuals who engage in behaviors that put them at risk for HIV get tested regularly, as early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes.
Learn more about HIV symptoms